CitravsTarget

Citra (dual purpose) and Target (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Target

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Target

MarmaladeSageSpicyPepper

Property

PropertyCitraTarget
Alpha acid10–15%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone20–35%35–40%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene60–70%45–55%
Humulene7–13%17–23%
Caryophyllene5–8%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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